Author: Victoria Kim and Matthew Abbott

October 13, 2026 Victoria Kim and Matthew Abbott

This Copper Mine Led to a Civil War. Can Reopening It Fund a New Nation?

Rising demand for copper has fueled interest in Bougainville’s Panguna mine, which has been shut for four decades. Yet some fear a rush to reopen risks a return to violence.

Australia International Relations Marape, James Papua New Guinea Rugby Youth

September 16, 2026 Victoria Kim and Matthew Abbott

Can an Island Nation’s Rugby Dreams Change Its Fortunes?

In Papua New Guinea, love for rugby league football borders on religion. The country’s leaders and its neighbor, Australia, want to harness the game for geopolitics, and to improve lives.